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"Mid-Coast" region of Maine — the center of which is Rockland is one
of the most unique areas in which to have a practice of Dermatology and to conduct related
testing. In part, this uniqueness is a result of almost universal misunderstandings of the
climate and of the genetic makeup of the indigenous population. The climate is among the most consistently dry types to be
found within the continental USA. Many factors contribute to this low absolute humidity.
Among them are low ocean water temperatures immediately offshore, prevailing winds which
are North-Westerly, and relatively low seasonal air temperatures.
All of these factors coincide to provide us with one
of the highest per-capita incidences of asteatosis (xerosis) to be found anywhere. These
same factors are among those which cause us to have some of the cleanest and clearest air.
This, in turn, means that our recorded annual hours of sunlight are much more significant
than similar hours of sun trying to push through smog and haze.
And so, the second feature, the genetic makeup of
the indigenous population is of importance. This is an area where Scotch, Irish, and
Nordics settled. Rosaceal Dermatitis, Actinic Damage, and Solar Keratoses are among the
other most common problems presented to the Dermatologist. All are influenced by incident
sunlight.
Finally, in recent years, economic factors have
probably caused a shift to a relatively high median age for the local population. Such a
shift would naturally enhance the incidence of the presentation of all the above-mentioned
problems.
About the author:
Dr. M. Brodie
James, M.D. is I.R.S.I.'s medical investigator for its Rockland, Maine site. Dr. James is
a graduate of the University of Toronto Medical School, he interned at Henry Ford Hospital
in Detroit, where he also received his residency training in Dermatology. In addition to
certification in several states including Maine, Dr. James is a member of the American
Academy of Dermatology, The International Society of Cosmetic Dermatology of which he is a
Director, The American Medical Association as well as a number of other professional
organizations. Dr. James is the author of over 100 research presentations and papers on
Dermatological subjects and is active in his practice in Camden, Maine.
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